Former president gets another health check at hospital in Taoyuan

TAIPEI--Imprisoned former President Chen Shui-bian had a health examination at Taoyuan General Hospital yesterday morning, after which his son again called for Chen to be released on medical parole.

Escorted by prison guards and police, Chen arrived at the hospital at 6:18 a.m. and had a series of medical screening procedures, including chest X-ray, nuclear magnetic resonance and cardiac ultrasound.

His son, Chen Chih-chung, said there has been no improvement in his father's health as he is still suffering breathing problems and chest pains.

In addition, three tumors were found during the checks, Chen Chih-chung said, pleading for his father to be granted medical parole.

The former president was seen wearing a bullet-proof vest, which the prison said he should wear outside the detention facility for his own safety.

Chen Shiu-bian concluded his hospital visit at about 10:20 a.m. and was taken back to Taipei Prison, where he is serving a 17.5-year sentence for corruption.

A group of Chen's supporters gathered outside the hospital shouting “A-bian is innocent.”

As Chen was leaving the hospital, the supporters stretched out on the ground and shouted “A-bian should be hospitalized.” The incident lasted for about 10 minutes before police convinced the protesters to disperse.